East Coast Greenway: Back Cove to Pine Grove Preserve

The full route from Back Cove to Pine Grove Preserve is approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) and is estimated to take around 2 hours and 12 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and any stops you make.

The terrain varies significantly. The Back Cove Trail section is mostly flat with a mix of hard-packed dirt, gravel, and paved surfaces. As you head towards Pine Grove Preserve, you'll encounter more natural trails with leaf litter, pine straws, and some roots. There's also a steep slope on the 'Red Pine trail' within the preserve, and some portions of the connection between the two areas may involve local roads.

While sections like the Back Cove Trail are considered easy and flat, the overall route is rated as 'difficult' due to its length (21 km) and the varied terrain, including some rugged sections and road portions. Beginners might find it challenging to complete the entire distance in one go.

Along the Back Cove Trail, you might spot great blue herons and other waterfowl in the tidal basin. In Pine Grove Preserve, you'll be in a mature pine forest, which is home to small mammals like squirrels, skunks, red foxes, weasels, and even nesting owls.

Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm, but the shaded sections of Pine Grove Preserve provide relief. Winter jogging is possible, but be prepared for snow and ice, especially on less maintained sections and within the preserve.

Yes, both the Back Cove Trail and Pine Grove Preserve are generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Pine Grove Preserve. It is a publicly accessible natural area.

For the Back Cove Trail section, there are several parking areas around Back Cove in Portland, often with seasonal portable toilets. For Pine Grove Preserve in Falmouth, there is dedicated parking available at the preserve's entrance.

Yes, the Back Cove Trail connects to the Eastern Promenade Trail and the Bayside Trail, allowing for longer running experiences. The overall route from Back Cove to Pine Grove Preserve utilizes segments of the East Coast Greenway (ME), Veranda St. / Falmouth Bike Route, Baxter Boulevard Bike Route, and various trails within Pine Grove Preserve like the Juniper Trail, Wolf Tree Trail, White Pine Trail, and Red Pine Trail.

Along the Back Cove Trail, you'll find benches, seasonal water fountains, and portable toilets in the parking areas. However, amenities are sparse once you leave the immediate Back Cove area and head towards Pine Grove Preserve. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks for the entire journey.

The Back Cove Trail offers continuous views of the Portland skyline and the tidal basin. As you progress, you'll transition into the serene, shaded mature pine forest environment of Pine Grove Preserve, known for its natural beauty and interpretive stations.